Pahang investigates suspected illegal clearing of 7,000ha at Tasik Bera

KUANTAN — The Pahang State Enforcement Unit (UPNP) has launched an investigation into suspected illegal clearing of more than 7,000 hectares of forest within the Tasik Bera area, one of the country's most significant wetland ecosystems. The discovery raises fresh concerns about environmental protection in the state, as initial findings indicate the cleared land may have been converted for crop cultivation. Tasik Bera, located in the district of Muar, is recognised as a Ramsar wetland site and serves as a critical habitat for numerous wildlife species and migratory birds. The scale of the suspected unauthorised clearance represents a significant loss of forest cover in a designated protected area. Pahang authorities have not yet released detailed findings from their investigation, but the case has drawn attention to enforcement challenges in monitoring large tracts of reserved forest land. The UPNP has indicated it will pursue the matter to determine responsibility for the unauthorised activities and assess potential remedial measures. Environmental groups have expressed concern about the implications for the wetland's ecological integrity and have called for stricter monitoring of forest reserves across the region.